The 2024 season capped off to much fanfare, with fans being blessed with intriguing tennis action over the past 12 months. While the likes of Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff were in the spotlight after putting on wonderful performances, Ons Jabeur was working hard behind the scenes for a noble cause. The Tunisian star ended her season early due to a shoulder injury but committed to working for charity. Her efforts were eventually recognized as the WTA bestowed a massive honor on her earlier this month, which led to a heartfelt tribute from the American legend, Billie Jean King.

Last week, the WTA announced the winners of their annual Awards. Jabeur was crowned with the Karen Krantzcke Sportsmanship Award and Peachy Kellmeyer Player Service Award for her outstanding contributions to the field of charity. Interestingly, the Tunisian star had won these awards last year as well and Billie Jean King couldn’t help but heap praise on Jabeur for achieving this massive honor.

Taking to her official X handle, Billie Jean King wrote, “Cheers to Ons Jabeur on winning the Karen Krantzcke Sportsmanship award and the Peaches Kellmeyer Player Service award!”

These two awards were voted for by Jabeur’s WTA peers, who felt that she deserved the award for her graciousness and respect for others on and off the court. While announcing a premature end to her season, Jabeur spoke about working for charity while recovering from her injury. The Tunisian star was committed to making a difference with her charity work.

Ons Jabeur wanted to make a ‘real difference to the world’

The 2024 season hasn’t been an easy one for Jabeur. She has had an inconsistent run this year on the court marred by injuries. Further, she suffered a shoulder injury toward the latter part of the year which forced her to end her season prematurely. Nonetheless, while announcing this grim update, Jabeur promised to work hard for society during her absence from the tour.

Taking to social media, she wrote, “This year has been extremely hard for me, and as athletes, we know that recovery is part of the journey… While I’m taking time to heal, I’ll be dedicating myself to charity work and ensuring that we make a real difference in the world.”

While she works for noble causes, Jabeur has been recovering well and is looking to come back next year. “I had time to rest my shoulder, I’m feeling much better than before. It allowed me to also recover mentally. It’s been a tough couple of years going on tour, so to breathe in for a couple of months was really awesome and I can’t wait to come back in Australia. I’m ready and very motivated and honestly hungry to play matches. I feel 2025 is going to be an amazing year,” Jabeur said.

With very little time left for the next season to begin, it remains to be seen when Jabeur can make a comeback. Can she return stronger than ever and get back to winning ways? Let us know your views in the comments below.